The Kirkus Prize is one of the richest literary awards in the world, with a prize of $50,000 bestowed annually to authors of fiction, nonfiction and young readers’ literature. It was created to celebrate the 81 years of discerning, thoughtful criticism Kirkus Reviews has contributed to both the publishing industry and readers at large. Books that earned the Kirkus Star with publication dates between November 1, 2014, and October 31, 2015 (see FAQ for exceptions), are automatically nominated for the 2015 Kirkus Prize, and the winners will be selected on October 15, 2015, by an esteemed panel composed of nationally respected writers and highly regarded booksellers, librarians and Kirkus critics.

KIRKUS REVIEW

An attempt 'to overcome sex stereotypes in a small picture book that seems as much a lecture for rigid parents as a reassurance for nonconforming boys. When William asks for a doll the other boys call him creep and sissy and his father buys him a basketball and train and workbench instead -- but Grandmother, who understands, buys him a doll and explains to his father that William needs it to "hug and cradle. . . and feed and love. . . so that he can practice being a father." William Pene Du Bois' pictures complement the gentle mood while softly emphasizing that William is quite a hand with the basketball too -- and if you find Ms. Zolotow's tender affirmations substantial enough for girls, there's no reason to withhold them from little brother.

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